Job Title: R&D Design Engineer

Job Description

Join our R&D team to design and develop innovative equipment solutions. You will create and evaluate proof-of-concept models to validate ideas for further development and present concepts and prototypes to internal teams, customers, or partners to refine product direction.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with the R&D team to design and develop new equipment solutions.Create and evaluate proof-of-concept models to validate ideas for further development.Present concepts and prototypes to internal teams, customers, or partners to refine product direction.Engage in floor and field testing with technicians during the development phase.Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors.

Essential Skills

Proficiency in Solidworks.New product development experience 1+ year of experience with Solidworks.Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Agricultural Engineering.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

Experience with C++, Python, or MATLAB is preferred.Robotics, perception sensors, and control system experience are desirable.

Work Environment

The work is predominantly conducted in a cubicle environment with approximately 70% of the time spent using Solidworks and 30% on the floor engaged in testing or prototyping. As part of the R&D department, you will also spend time in testing fields. The company offers a family-oriented culture with opportunities for training, mentorship, and involvement in community activities. Benefits include paid holidays and two weeks of vacation.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Iowa City, IA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $31.25 - $33.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Iowa City,IA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 13, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.